Sailor fullback and defensive end being courted by four college programs

Steamboat Springs  While Jay Hanley's high school football career ended weeks ago, the Steamboat Springs High School senior certainly isn't taking a break.

Hanley, who played fullback and defensive end for the Sailors, says he is looking at playing collegiate football at one of four schools: Colorado, Missouri, Kansas State or Hawaii.

Although none of the four have offered a scholarship, Hanley said all are interested.

"There's a lot of opportunities," Hanley said from Hawaii on Friday before meeting with the Warriors coaching staff. "Nothing is official until signing day."

Hanley has visited all four schools and said he doesn't favor one over any of the others. He said his decision will likely come down to what place he feels the most comfortable at, and where he is most likely to see playing time. If Hanley doesn't get a scholarship offer, he will be a preferred walk-on.

"They all bring their own things to the table," Hanley said. "I can't say I have a favorite. I'm very interested in all of them."

Despite racking up more than 3,500 yards rushing as a high schooler, Hanley said Kansas State is the only school looking at him as an offensive player.

"I'll play wherever they need me," Hanley said. "I play wherever I need to be on the field."

Hanley is scheduled to return today from Hawaii. This week he'll talk to Missouri, where he visited in August. Missouri is interested in Hanley as either a nose guard or linebacker.

As a defensive end last season, Hanley recorded 54 tackles, eight sacks, three fumble recoveries and scored two defensive touchdowns.

"It's been fun getting to travel," Hanley said. "It's been strange. Nobody really told us what to do in the recruiting process, and a lot of stuff we'd change and a lot of stuff we wouldn't change. But it's been awesome getting to meet these football players, seeing really what makes them that team. I feel honored."

While Hanley will have to wait until Feb. 6 to sign a national letter of intent to a program, he said he's excited to get the process over with.

"I try not to expect anything," Hanley said. "I've dedicated myself and wanted to achieve greatness and be the best I could. But this has been my goal since I started playing."